NaamBiyaasi

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh Anytime Steel Bangle, just glad that I saved that discussion a long time ago and was able to add something of value to this discussion board. I have got no issues with Muslims as such, but I do have problems with people that belittle the traditions of another faith, and coat their comments in sheeps clothing. The Below Link is to that discussion: http://www.sikhawareness.com/sikhawareness...opic.php?t=1735 Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh Please read the thread- "Sikhism Uncovered- Q&A ( Why Sikhism is Wrong ) Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru JI Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh I had been directed to a Uk SIkh Society at King's College a few year's back, where a number of questions was posed to the Sikh Sangat by a person of the Islamic Faith. Here in Canada, a few years back, I was presented with Similiar questions. I have no quarrell with Good Muslims. But if a Muslims or a person of any other faith believes that that means not respecting the beliefs of others, and using underhanded tackets in doing that. Such as belittling anothers faith, and act as if it you are just curious and mean no offense by it, then I would Challenge the Virtue in your actions. The following are responses made to this individual, by a Gursikh from Canada. I hope all read the responses. I Learned a Great Deal from it. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji KI Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh A friend of mine, made the following posting on my site a few years ago, about the same topic. Helped me out in terms of understanding the message Gurbani was conveying to us: "Eating and sleeping are two sensory pleasures which the body craves. Although both of these are neccessary for life, unless they are kept under control they can have a negative effect on the mind. Over indulging on food or sleep is not beneficial (I'm sure there are plenty of scientific facts to back this up too). The gurbani advises you to eat and sleep enough to sustain yourself. If you can't control these craving, they will control you. They both constitute a form of greed. Why eat when you are not hungry? Our time is limited and should be devoted to God. Why waste time sleeping?"-Pal Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

The link below is to a collection of poems written by a friend of mine. I put some of these poems up on my site close to 2 years ago. She has written many poems since then, and they have been posted up on a prominent Sikh Site. Read some of her poems if you have the chance. They are pretty incredible in their depth but conveyed in a very simple way. Enjoy http://www.sikhspectrum.com/082003/poems_palvinder.htm

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh What's up JSB, Let me answer your questions, as you are awaiting my response. Although I am not really sure what you wish me to respond to, you seemed to have explained yourself, with no further questions... With regards to my request of being able to talk to the sangat of the Gur-Aasra-Foundation, I was allowed to do so after the ardas was done. It was said at around the same time other annoucements were made in the deewan hall. - If you are referring to your head jathedars as being bad apples, I think you should approach them, and talk to them about this, because these were the people I approached. I first approached the auntie that holds sangat at her house weekly, then was referred to another auntie that was also someone that had a say in this matter. It took time, and I found it sad that I had to be directed to so many people, when the request was simple and a yes or no would have sufficed. -These lekhs are also read in the deewan hall to the sangat, for about 1/2 an hour. And one time I went to the Toronto Smaagam, there was no lekh being read at all, but a video being shown, from the front of the hall in an area near Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, where all you saw was the camera firmly fixed on "mata ji," who was not even saying anything for 30 minutes. All that was on the video was the camera fixed on her, and keertan being sung in the background. These are some of the observances I have made. But I agree, the Lekhs are well-written, and are a good read. The writings of Osho, I find also a Great Read. - I won't comment too much on the above, as I have heard a very different story as to why Dodra Sangat is not allowed in the Gurdwara. The incident occured a while back, where a number of girls from the sangat came forward, after being molested by one of the more senior and authoratative individuals in the Dodra Sangat. This individual was charged and spent a number of years in jail. I have actually spoken with the daughter of the man that served molestation charges, and she does not waver from his innocence. However, similiar incidences were echoed in Winnipeg, by other female members of the sangat, although I do not know what became of them. I think this is the BIG reason why Dodra Sangat was not allowed in the Gurdwara, in the US and Canada, because those incidences took place here. Because of the Black mark it would leave on the Sikh community at large. In Dodra Sangat in India, during smaagams, men and women are not even allowed to sit next to each other, or even have langar in the same halls, because of this. The male and female interaction is very limitted. It is sad, when the acts of a few individuals, taint things that are there to promote something positive. :? Hope this response was good enough for you JSB. I am stating what I know, and what I have observed first hand. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh ms514, you seem to read into something that is not there. First with regards Raag. The style of Raag, played on string instruments, is to convey the message of Gurbani, in a manner that conveys a deeper message of Gurbani. It is Very Specific in Gurbani, to the nature and manner in which it should be done. The Keertan done on the Vaja, cannot hit the same notes and does not have the same range, as those done via stringed instruments such as the dilruba or the rabaab. The vaja itself was not even allowed into Harmandir Sahib until this century, and via the persuasion of the British. It was considered the lowest of the instruments, due to its inability to hit the ranges and create the mood required of the Raag in their original form. Other foreign stringed instruments may be able to do this, but not the vaja. Simran itself, is not done to get a buzz. The simran style done in AKJ smaagams is just that. Saying simran fast, with a specific breathing technique that itself cuts of oxygen circulation to the brain to some degree, giving that uplifting feeling. Simran has never been done to focus on the breath, but to focus on the word. Doing simran in this manner, for some, can be distracting, an people get caught up in the feeling that lasts only temporarily, rather than focusing on Naam, which is within. "And this business about inner rehat, which is coupled with "Sikhi is inside" statement is the biggest fraud ever!" Have you read the message of Gurbani??? Where does God reside? If you thinking inner rehat is a fraud, what is not a fraud? Do you think that empty external rehat that lacks compassion and self discipline is? Where does your mind reside? Where do the 5 vices reside? Where does ignorance reside? Where does humility reside? If your whole focus is outside, how you going to tackle the above when they all reside within you? The Sikh is a Sant-Sipahi, Saint-Soldier. He has both the inner rehat and the outer. "If everyone was such a Sikh inside, would it not overflow to the outside?" The above is what I had stated in my lasting posting if you had spent the time to reading it. "What...we should have ponytails and wear Kirpan pendants???" This statement, summarizes you offensive mindedness. Where in my posting did I elude to this?? Think a while, and read with an open mind, rather than running away with something that obviously is not there. "And this Narinder Garewal...tell me, what type of Brahm Gyani steals someone's wife???" I commented on someone's personal life, if you care to read what I had written scroll up. "His works that say that the Panj Pyare are nothing, his proclaiming that he has been to a Khand (Paar-Brahm Khand) that even the Gurus did not "deserve" to go into (evidenced by works of one Multani on the Satnaam website itself) and many other comments have proven to me that this man has issues (many of which might be resolved tonight!). He has even claimed that he can damn people to hell with his command! I thought a Guru was to save people, not banish them!" These are some of the views that I also do not agree with. The Hukamanama's I have taken, keep me rooted. But I do as they tell me to do, and accept what Guru Tell's me as Truth. I have been VERY EXPLICITLY told not to Slander this individual, and to continue doing that sangat. And I will according to my Guru's Instructions, but have been very stand-offish due to the above. Which ever reason Guru Has me there, or wishes me to go there, I do not know. But as a Sikh I cannot Say My Guru Is Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, if I do not follow what my Guru has dictated to me. I will have no ill will towards anyone, regardless of what they say. My Guru Has no hate, so why should I? If i cannot even practise the teaching of Mool Mantar, what teachings of Sikhism can I? "If a living Guru was always necessary, tell me how did Sant Attar Singh, a Brahm-Gyani himself, attain his status without a Living Guru?" God Alone is the Lone Brahm-Giani. When you have that Union with the Beloved, you will See that God in All. And Sikhs have a Living Guru, Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, if you disbelieve in that, read more and be open minded. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh Jagroop Singh Ji, Beautifully said. Hope we get a chance to do sangat in our home town, when I come down from north america on vacation. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh I am someone that has done sangat with AKJ, Dodra and SatNaam Sagar (what some would consider Grewal's Group) and have done so for over 5 years. I have interacted with all, and have tried to take whatever good I could find or precieve at this point in my life, and use that to help me. I think any group that promotes the teachings of hate, is not part of sikhism. Any group that belittles the mode of worship of others to our Beloved as not promoting Sikhism. Any group that considers itself the "next best thing", or the Truest form of Sikhism as not promoting Sikhism. No one knows of the original form of Sikhism, many claim they do, you will know when yourself are a sacrifice to Gurbani, and no longer slander and belittle others. How many in this life time, will be so Blessed? The external Rehat means nothing without the Inner Rehat. And the internal Rehat, always is exhibited externally. I have done sangat with AKJ. In my interpretation they way that many co-ordinate themselves, and practise as a Group I would consider a cult. Going against the teaches of Sikhism. By some, i have even heard the thinking, that if Guru Gobind Singh Ji was to appoint another living Guru, it would have been Bhai Randhir Singh Ji. A group, that promotes itself as Ideal, the purest form, and yet belittles and slanders others. I see as being false. Where the most Basic principle of Langar, and communal eating regardless of faith, is not practised. The keertan style done, does not reflect the form of Raag, they way it is dictated in Gurbani, and Waheguru Simran is performed during the deliverance of the message of the Shabad, something that itself was introduced this century, by an AKJ Singh, that was later excumunecated for unrelated reasons. I am saying this, because if this is the original and purest form of Sikhism, why is it that fundamentals in Gurbani, such as doing only keertan in Raag form seen as being nothing but a technicality, and not practised uncompremisingly, and another form of Keertan promoted? I think the AKJ mentality most often is dictated by those individuals that are considered "ponchay", or are thought of as having done alot of "Kamayi," individuals that are Chardiakalah. Hence, why Waheguru Simran was maintained in the Performance of Keertan, as other Chardiakalah Singhs also participated in this foreign mode of Keertan. (The same is done in Dodra Sangat) Dodra Sangat, in some respects I would also consider a Cult, and I am not sure where on earth JSB got the Idea that it was the biggest Jatha, I don't believe that at all. That to me is akin to the musliims saying they are the fastest growing religion in the west, based on conversion. A baseless statement, and promoting nothing but itself. It may be said, that the statement was made to make a point, but points can be made in other manners rather that stating baseless "facts" such as these. How is the number of those that are part of Dodra Sangat evaluated and construed? I have read some of the Lekhs of Jaswant Singh Ji, and I think alot of what he has written has good in it, a quality that I have also seen in the writings of Bhai Randhir Singh Ji, SatNaam Sagar and other Guru Piyaarai. One thing I did not like about Dodra Sangat, was that fact that alot of individuals would do things according to what they felt Jaswant Singh Ji would have said is correct, according to those that kept his company or their interpretations of the Lekhs. This seemed to be a source of guidance. One time I asked an auntie in the Toronto Sangat, if I could make an annoucement about sponsorship of Orphan Children in India ( Gur Aasra Foundation). I was directed to numerous individuals, with comments such as "we don't know if Mahapurkh would have allowed it," being made. To even have a second thought of allowing someone to make an announcement about helping the down trodden, seemed absurd to me, and not very Sikhi like, especially when it was the guidance of a person that was sought. Further, many individuals in the Sangat consider the originator of the sangat or jatha, or whatever you would like to call it as a Master, Mahapurkh, and have a living Mata Ji. Individuals to whom, Sangat use to Mutha Taek and continue to do so. I cannot comment on Mata Ji or Jaswant Singh, as I have not kept their company. But from what I have heard, from reliable sources who have done their sangat, is that they consider themselves nothing, and put all esteem into respecting Sangat where Keertan is Sung, love is shown, and take no virtues upon themselves. I believe the same was the case with Bhai Randhir Singh. I have done Sangat with Nariender Singh Ji, for almost 5 years on and off, the same amout of time, that I have done sangat with AKJ and Dodra Sangats. I will not comment upon him as an individual in terms of His Bhagtee and Spiritual achievements, as I have recieved all the answers I have Sought via Hukamnama's. I will not slander, or belittle him, as I would not to any Guru Piyaara. From my interactions with him, as a person, I see him as a person that genuinely follows what he believes Gurbani teaches. He follows a Very literal interpretation of Gurbani, and always bows down to Sangat and mutha taeks, considerig Sangat the Highest of all things, because within it Resides God. Everyones personal life is just that, their own personal life, and whatever actions we perform in that life, we will reap what we sow. The SatNaam Sangat shows no discrimination towards others, based on religion, caste or creed, and Truthful living as is interpreted by them. To them 3 things are ABSOLUTELY fundamental to Sikh Practise according to their thought. Gur (God), Gursangat (company of God Oriented Souls), and Guru ( Gurbani and Company of a Living BrahmGiani) A few things I did not like, and would make some consider them a cult is the fact that they put down groups such as AKJ, as were other individuals that belittled SatNaam Sangat. Those that leave the sangat, are seen as disbelievers in the interpretation of a Sant (as they percieve it ) in Gurbani. Those that recieve "Naam", by Nariender Singh Ji are bound to his Guidance to the completion of their spiritual journey, (as they are to Gurbani equally) and give him Daswand. Because of Such things, my sangat with SatNaam Sagar has decreased, as I do not believe in some of these thoughts or practises. However, having kept company with Narinder Singh Ji since his days as Dixie GuruGhar, I can say that these practises are based on the interpretation made upon Gurbani. Simran is done with alot of Love. Gurbani is held in High Esteem and practised according to their interpretation. And Sangat is promoted. Each Group has their own interpretation of Gurbani, and each has been initiated by what they would consider "Chardiakalah" Souls. Doing Sangat with and the sewa of such souls is seen as been important to all these groups. Each would see itself as being the purer form of Sikhism. This itself is the root of the differences. The practises and actions of applying Gurbani in Life are different. And this is the root of the conflict, as the action is dictated by differing interpretations. But I have a question for all these groups. Since when has the mode of devotion to the Beloved, been dictated as only being one? If it has not, and many modes of devotion are seen equally, as it is the weight of the heart that is important, why is it that every soul in the Sikh Faith, has to follow a set and rigid external Rehat, when the inner rehat is put on the back burner? Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh With regards to Singhnees, I think they are all very beautiful in appearance. Alot of the Singhs I know would only want to marry a Singhni. But the things I find very amazing about Singhni's is how alot of them will not conform to western standards of beauty, and let all their hairs grow, in both the facial and armpit regions. At one time, it is sad to say this, but I found that very unattractive. But now, having matured, learned more about life, and people, I find those things Very attractive about Singhnees. It tells me of the Piyaar they have for Our Beloved on the inside. As a guy, i cannot even begin to imagine what girls have to go through, and how hard it is for them. There are alot of Singhs that want "barbie dolls" for partners, which does not make things easier for them. I use to be one of them, so I can relate. My Girlfriend is not a Singhni, but grows her hair. She does her eyebrows and shaves her legs, because to her she has done this her whole life, and to her that is how she is made to feel attractive. She knows, however, that I find her more attractive, when she does not do these things. She even stopped doing these things for a while, and saw that first hand. She has my full support if she decides to walk that path for herself. I think this is one of the problems girls face. Singhs often times want a hairless singhnee and that is not really possible. But Singhnees should know, that there are also many Singhs who want a Singhnee in all her glory. When you conform to western standards of beauty, you lose alot of yourself as a singh or singhnee. If Guru Supports you in the Image of a Khalsa, Guru will Support you in the matters of the heart. Don't ever be discouraged. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh I think that talk is cheap. As a Singh, I have often come across Sikh girls that say they would have an equal likelihood of dating Singhs or those that cut their hair. They say they respect Singhs and have no biases against being with one, and would be with one if they had come across one that they had clicked with. This sentiments is often followed by a referral to family members by these girls, that are Singhs, thus showing the basis of their non-bias, tolerant and open minded thought on the subject matter. Sadly however, when it comes to putting their money where their mouthes are, so to speak, many girls are less than enthusiatic to date, be introduced to, or be with a Singh. Why is this? In my experience, it has to do with alot of factors. Many girls have grown up with a sterotype that seems to have been ingraved in their minds about Singhs. They think that Singhs will try to change them upon or after marriage or within their relationship. That they will attempt to make them religious, stop them from having freedom and a good time. Will tell them what to do and how to behave. In essence, to these girl, being with a Singh would often times be equivalent to marrying into restrictions. Having such a stereotypic and negative view, it is no wonder alot of these girls fear to be in life long commitments with "these guys that are Singhs." Further, these girls usually aren't as attracted to Singhs due to cultural influences and standards of beauty. For example, culture is something that can instill lasting impressions, however subtle, through Indian/Western media. Being constantly shown in the media as either comic relief in movies or fanatics in the news leaves an unsettling image of the "regular Singh," and a unfair one. It would be equivalent to a Gursikh Kuri thinking of all guys that cut their hair as being non-virgins, alcoholics, druggies, and uneducated in religious thought. This would be an unfair assumption, as would those directed towards Singhs. So what can be done about it? For one, Singhs should not see these stereotypes and unconsciously mold themselves to them. Many of the younger generation I see as having impressionable minds. Living in the, "what will others say," "I don't want to give of this impression of me," or "I won't ever be like them, and fit in", or even "I will never be able to attract a girl that I find attractive." Such thinking can be carried into adulthood and often times more so for those that already THINK that they have so much already going against them. This I think is one of the bigger issues that needs to be addressed by Singhs and Kaurs. It is hard not to be discouraged about alot of things, especially thoughts upon marriage and finding a suitable partner, when qualities in a partner such as those shown above in the original posting are echoed in our society. But just because the masses think and act a certain way, does not mean we should conform to it, or be disgruntled. Stereotypes remain "acceptable facts" until the counter is shown. And to show is your choice. I myself use to live in this stereotype, until i decided i did not want to anymore. I use to think as a Singh, I could not find a suitable partner for myself by asking a girl out, by approaching her. That I could not do anything "unreligious," such as latin dancing as Singhs did not do that kind of thing. Or write Love poetry as it was unbecoming of a Singh. I got sick of this thinking, and my cowardis of not facing the challenges and stereotypes head on. When I started approaching girls, being myself, and not caring about what other thought of me, i became more comfortable with who I was, as were others. It was around this time I approached the most Beautiful girl I had EVER seen. NO exaggeration. I would previously have thought that for sure, she would not go for a Singh, and of all Singhs me, as I was living in a self created bubble. I had already determined what I "should get" and this was based on my experiences and observations of those around me. But for this girl, it was different, and I decided to approach her and speak with her, to be myself, and take it from there. I have now been with this girl for a year and a half, and had seen that not only did I go outside the stereotype I lived in, but also removed the stereotypes I had placed on others, such as my girl. You surprise people and yourself when you are who you are. One thing, that I had found particularly surprising, was the fact that I was being approached by girls of different ethnic groups (Indian, Chinese and Caucasian girls), and not just our own when I no longer lived in the "stereotypic bubble". It is qualites in you that attract people, and leave lasting impressions... Today, I am a confident Singh, that lives in the moment, and am not afraid to be me regardless of what others may think. I am goodlooking, have alot to offer the world and with Guru's Kirpa am in High Spirits. You might not be able to change the world, but you can change yourself, and be happy with what God Has Blessed you with. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh I would disagree with the posts of those offended by some of the replies given. I believe is respecting others and their opinion, but when one states their question in a negative manner to begin with, with subtle underlying derogatory tones, (such as those found in the above quote) then I have a problem with the person asking the question. You could be an atheist, sikh, muslim or whatever else, but if you pose your question in this forum in such a manner, I believe you have no real intention for an answer but rather with an intent to provoke conflict. I am a straight shooter when it comes to such matters, and am not going to sugar coat or state things I do not genuinely believe to be the case. Just as Muhammad had a question on cleanliness in sikhism, so did some of the Sikh Brothers about Islam and its view on the very same matter. Why then was their questions seen as insults and attacks on Islam whilst those by a Muslim which were written in a more derogatory manner seen different? Think About it. If the moderators had not seen the initial question, in the manner it was written as derogatory, then why were the responses seen as such? Further, if a Sikhs beard gets "very dirty" when they eat, how would the same dirt not attach itself to a beard that is the size of a fist? Makes no real sense to me. By common logic, shouldn't this scenario be equally applicable to both types of beards? Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh Let me add in my 2 cents. I have a girlfriend. Have had one for about a year and a half and there is no shame in that. I am in my mid- twenties, and she is the first and last girl I will ever date. Now, being a person on the path of amrit, why have I dated this person? Plain and simple, the moment I met this person the qualities I saw in this person stuck me like a tonne of bricks. Having had met many attractive people in my life and possible suiters, what had made this person different, and made her have such an impression on me? I was very puzzled as to why this person was different and has such an affect of me, that no other person ever had. Why is it that the first time I saw her I literally had to tell myself to breath in and breath out? This is when I went to Our Guru's Feet, and asked who this person was. The hukamnama spoke of me being empty inside, and how now I was complete. How my search had been over. How now I had companionship, and would find the True Love. From this Command from Our Guru, I knew that this person, would be a Great Sangat in my life, and was not just any person. A person that I would walk on this life pilgrimage with and with Guru's Kirpa find the True Lover within. Because of this I spoke with this person and almost instantly we connected and we became good friends. As time progressed I started to have deeper feelings for this person, feelings that went beyond anything I had experienced with any other. I wanted to run away, and be alone as I thought this persons views of Sikhism were too different from mine and that she was distracting me from Vaheguru. So I took a Hukamnama, and was blatently asked by Our Guru, "Why are you running away?" I was told that when it is time to enter the battle field I pack up my belongings and leave. This struck me very hard, and almost made me cry, as I could not comprehend how our Guru knew what I was doing and knew the truth behind the action. I was running away, because I was falling in love. And this scared me, ALOT. I felt these feelings were wrong, and that I should not have them. But Guru Ji questioned me upon my actions, and forced me to look inside myself for the real answer... This person that Guru Ji has brought into my life has been a Great Blessing in my life, and to Guru Ji I have to give All my thanks. I never knew I was such a selfish person, that I was so close minded, that I was so judgemental, until I had this sangat that forced me to look at these qualities. My views of Sikhism are different from this persons. I am someone Ready to commit my Life to Our Guru, and with Guru's Grace be initiated into the Khalsa, while this person is not. In the beginning, we had many arguments about this, so again, I was at a point to "run," and take the easier way out. I asked our Guru for advice, and was scoulded for putting down another for their belief. I was told, what right did I have to place judgement on the relationship of others with God. This again, was a slap in my face and a real eye opener. Why was I thinking of myself as being so high in my thought and spirituality? Each person will have a unique relationship with our Beloved. Respect that and respect God's relationship with them. Each will be different.... Last night, was the night before my birthday, and I was on the phone with my Sangat. I told her that I would have to get off the phone to do paat, and for the first time, she told me not to get off, and that we should do it together. In a year and a half of knowing her, this really surprised me, as she is a person that keeps her spirituality very much reserved, and now she wanted to share this. It was very pleasant to share in this experience with Our Beloved. I, as a person, had always been open to her about my thinking and spiritual beliefs, even doing such things as giving her a Sundar Goutka for Valentines day. It was a Great Gift from Vaheguru. Today was my birthday, and for the first time in our relationship, we both went to the Gurdwara together. The Hukamnama said "Through the Gurdwara, the Guru's Gate, one obtains understanding. By being washed through this Gate, it becomes pure." Guru Knew and Knows everything in my life and yours also. Guru is my sole guidance. Having been someone very anti-dating, Guru made me face it. As a person, through my interactions with this sangat, my mind has become more open, I have become more loving towards others, I have become more accepting of others flaws and my own and seen first had my selfishness and countless other qualities that I will work on. So having said all of this, what is my view on dating? I believe that each situation is unique. But there are 3 components, Guru, yourself and the sangat. Our living Guru Guides us when we are at cross-roads in our lives. Guru Ji is my companion, true friend and Loving Parent that wants only the best for me and the same for you. One of the greatest gifts Guru Gives us is being in sangat with those that help us see our faults, and through whose companionship we become more God Conscious. From what Guru had shown me through guidance, like what you have seen above, I have come to realise that we should NEVER doubt that Our Guru knows us each individually, and will guide us as such. So should you date or not, ask OUR Guru, and you will be told of this answer, in your INDIVIDUAL situation and at this point in your life. Guru speaks to us, and knows what we will understand and digest. Do it with a VERY open mind,with no pre-determined notions or desires of what you think is best. Accept what Guru Tells you as Best. Sikhism is about Love, so be weary of lust, anger, greed, attachement and Ego. Sikhism is about growing, so be weary of stagnant and rigid thought. Sikhism is about Learning so be weary of becoming a teacher. Sikhism is about respect so be weary of becoming close-hearted..... God Bless Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh One thing I feel many sikhs, muslim's, hindu's fail to realise is Oneness. They see the name Bhagat Kabir, Bhagat Naam Dev, Baba Fareed, and they think these are men of different faiths and are not Khalsa (Pure One). In the Concept of Akaal, there is ONE teacher ALONE. Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is NOT a compilation, but an Eternal Truth, The Unbound Word. IK-OANKAR. This is what Gurbani Teaches us of. NO-ONE other than Akaal wrote within Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Puran BrahmGiani, Puran SATGURU. SatNaam Alone is SatGuru. Vaheguru Spoke BrahmGian through Bhagat Kabir, Bhagat Naam Dev and Baba Fareed, and this BrahmGian resides with us today, by Vaheguru's Grace. How can we as Sikhs be so blind to this? IK-Oankar. One Truth, One God, One Disciple, One Humanity, One Love. Religion is avenue to direct us there. The Intimate relationship itself and deepest of Pilgrimages, resides within us, and is of the Soul-bride seperated from Her Beloved Husband Lord. There were not many writers of Gurbani. But ONE. There are not different qualities of Gurbani, but ONE. There are not many religions within Gurbani, but ONE. People talk of the Bani of the Bhagat's, and Bani of the Guru's and of them being seperate. But don't both reside within our Living Guru? Don't ever forget that Gurbani came from "Gur", God, and that Ik-Oankar is what this Bani Preaches to us of. In a time where there was/is arrogance, inequality, and divisions between Believers of God, SatGuru delivers the message of SatNaam. There is only One SatGuru, and this SatGuru spoke through and continues to speak through, which ever vessel was/is of SatGuru's Choosing and at any instance, so that we as the seperated Soul-brides can learn of our Way of Surrender. It is the One Universal Truth that we as Sikhs should be a Sacrifice to. The one Truth that resides within us and around us. SatGuru presented Truth to All, and showed that this Truth was Accessible and Universal to All. This Truth could reside within those that we observed of different faiths, but in reality were those Living within the One Beloved. Devotee's that had gone beyond the veils of illusions, and gone beyond religion, and merged with the One Beyond religion. Realising the Truth within them that was beyond race, gender, and preachers. IK-Oankar SatNaam Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh First off, I would like to say I find this site to be a very productive one. It is great that we as young sikhs can talk so openly about issues that concern us and not have negativity towards each other in our replies, but mutual respect. This I hope is a standard that has been set and will dictate the course of this discussion. With Vaheguru's Kirpa, I hope we all will continue to learn from each other, and see things from differing perspectives and points of view. My views on this topic will be fairly biased, due to my limited exposure to the "club scene." To tell you the truth, the closest I have been to a club, has been when I went to a Club Punjab Formal. There was a mixed crowd, of all ethnic groups. There was alot of drinking, smoking, grinding, and various other activities that took place in the men's washroom. Needless to say, at that time, I was appalled by the behaviour of alot of the youth that was there. But one thing that I came to realise from this experience, was that alot of the youth that was there had mixed motivations to being there but one set of core reasons. Alot of people were there to feel better inside. To feel happier, to feel alive, and dare I say, to feel loved and accepted. Not too dissimiliar from the motivations many have for going to their respective places of worship. Some people say clubbing is nothing but maya personified. If that were the case, we have had the opportunity to read the accounts of one sister that observed, first hand, the workings of Guru in this "house of maya". So what is my point? What am I trying to get to? Nothing complicated, but something very basic and intrinsic. The motivation to feel Love and to be Loved. People go to places, where they feel they will experience this. It is not a sin to want to feel peace inside, to feel physical affection, to feel alive, to feel you have purpose, to feel you are accepted. For those that disagree, with this concept of Love as a motivator for our actions, and those that think this Love is over-rated, I ask you to look at your motivations in life. What drives you and to what ends? We use lust, anger, greed, attachment and ego, as quick avenues to something beyond them. These elements are never satisfied, as they serve a temporary purpose. They take us further away, from something we unconsciously try to become closer to, by using these qualities. A quick fix to an innate desire. It is akin to a mother having a baby for the sole desire of experiencing love. But love itself can only come from where it originates, within us. We all know, what right and wrong is. We all know, what brings us joy and sorrow. And we all know what makes us Love (God) Oriented and what does not. This is not something we need to be told or preached about. We just need to listen to Ourselves, Truthfully. If you find joy in a club, reflect upon the Truth within you there, and let it direct your actions. That is, if you want that "high, " or feeling of being alive, or feeling loved not to be temporary and to be lasting. If you find joy elsewhere, that brings you a lasting peace and that is self-sustaining cherish it. Life is short, and so is this opportunity. Whatever you do in this life, do it by being Truthful to yourself. To live, a living lie, is a very sad state indeed. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh On Reason & Passion And the priestess spoke again and said: "Speak to us of Reason and Passion." And he answered saying: Your soul is oftentimes a battlefield, upon which your reason and your judgment wage war against passion and your appetite. Would that I could be the peacemaker in your soul, that I might turn the discord and the rivalry of your elements into oneness and melody. But how shall I, unless you yourselves be also the peacemakers, nay, the lovers of all your elements? Your reason and your passion are the rudder and the sails of your seafaring soul. If either your sails or our rudder be broken, you can but toss and drift, or else be held at a standstill in mid-seas. For reason, ruling alone, is a force confining; and passion, unattended, is a flame that burns to its own destruction. Therefore let your soul exalt your reason to the height of passion; that it may sing; And let it direct your passion with reason, that your passion may live through its own daily resurrection, and like the phoenix rise above its own ashes. I would have you consider your judgment and your appetite even as you would two loved guests in your house. Surely you would not honour one guest above the other; for he who is more mindful of one loses the love and the faith of both. Among the hills, when you sit in the cool shade of the white poplars, sharing the peace and serenity of distant fields and meadows - then let your heart say in silence, "God rests in reason." And when the storm comes, and the mighty wind shakes the forest, and thunder and lightning proclaim the majesty of the sky, - then let your heart say in awe, "God moves in passion." And since you are a breath In God's sphere, and a leaf in God's forest, you too should rest in reason and move in passion. On Pain And a woman spoke, saying, "Tell us of Pain." And he said: Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding. Even as the stone of the fruit must break, that its heart may stand in the sun, so must you know pain. And could you keep your heart in wonder at the daily miracles of your life, your pain would not seem less wondrous than your joy; And you would accept the seasons of your heart, even as you have always accepted the seasons that pass over your fields. And you would watch with serenity through the winters of your grief. Much of your pain is self-chosen. It is the bitter potion by which the physician within you heals your sick self. Therefore trust the physician, and drink his remedy in silence and tranquillity: For his hand, though heavy and hard, is guided by the tender hand of the Unseen, And the cup he brings, though it burn your lips, has been fashioned of the clay which the Potter has moistened with His own sacred tears. On Self-Knowledge And a man said, "Speak to us of Self-Knowledge." And he answered, saying: Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and the nights. But your ears thirst for the sound of your heart's knowledge. You would know in words that which you have always know in thought. You would touch with your fingers the naked body of your dreams. And it is well you should. The hidden well-spring of your soul must needs rise and run murmuring to the sea; And the treasure of your infinite depths would be revealed to your eyes. But let there be no scales to weigh your unknown treasure; And seek not the depths of your knowledge with staff or sounding line. For self is a sea boundless and measureless. Say not, "I have found the truth," but rather, "I have found a truth." Say not, "I have found the path of the soul." Say rather, "I have met the soul walking upon my path." For the soul walks upon all paths. The soul walks not upon a line, neither does it grow like a reed. The soul unfolds itself, like a lotus of countless petals. -author unknown Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh The Journey Of The Soul Your heart is filled with pain, Your mind cluttered with confusion. Pieces of your life fall around you Like raindrops in a storm. The path you chose so long ago Led you straight to hurts door. Now your weary feet struggle To find the road back home, Searching for the places That love and beauty hide. Temptations lie in wait all around, Pulling at your every step, Waiting for you to slide back From the chosen, sought for, path. Emptiness surrounds you, Confusing your perceptions. It is difficult to carry on. I will do my best to fill your heart with joy, To clear the cobwebs of confusion, Help you find your purpose. I am good at catching pieces And I can chase away a storm. Let me walk your path beside you, I have walked this road before. You can lean on me when the weariness comes. My shoulders are very strong. I can not fight your battles, Or chase away demons of the soul, But I can lend you my strength Until you find your own. I will help you find the courage To face each day anew. I can not shorten the journey you must make, The road is just as long as before. But I can fill the emptiness And help you reach your center, The place where love and beauty hide. Take my hand, be my friend, Let me walk with you awhile. -Author unknown Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh " All your dukh (suffering), will become diminished on a full stomach. Does not a full plate nourish your wounds, and bring you energy? Does not the world seem a little brighter after placing your knife and fork down after you have consumed your last morsel. Does not a full meal, taste better after a dismal day? Even though the thunder still covers the sky's, and the rain pounds down around you, this day is fresher after you have eaten. Find the food that will nourish your soul." And then the room whispered, What of ones desire to solve all pains? He replied, " In your life, you will have many pains. Your first instinct will to be to become overwhelmed. As your loneliness shares drinks with your fears, your over due bills will dance with the pain from your ex's. Your failures will bed your self esteem. And you will find despair. And amongst this suffocation, you will desire to perfect your world and try to solve all your problems. This process will only lead you to more despair and more disappointment. And one day, you will accept your life. Accept the gifts around you. Try not to fix everything, and try not to think of every pain, in every moment after every breath. Release yourself and accept your life. From your scars you will find a better you. From your pain, you will realize, that not every problem needs to be solved, but every problem needs to be accepted. " And as he stopped at a red light, the squeegee man-child asked him, "My mind makes me dizzy. I cannot escape it. The voices repeat my misery, over and over." Turning down the volume he said, " Remove yourself from your thoughts. Open your mind, and listen to yourself. The voices are phantoms and echoes of your lost self. Lend a hand, and guide yourself to a quiet place. When you are alone, your mind will think of your most vocal emotional times, and recite them to you - by covering your joys. In the mornings, and just before you sleep, your demons will appear. When you are alone, ghosts of anger, and betrayal, and helplessness will haunt you. Listen to yourself and deny the dead their existence. Just as your body remembers how to shift gears, and open doors without thought, so does your mind remember to remind you of your pain. Unteach it. Replace those thoughts. Hear yourself. You are the Man in the mirror. You do not have to be your history." And what of my tomorrow? " Tomorrow is new, and always fresh. Beside every pain, is a space that needs your joy. Your sorrows are like a blanket. They cover the light, and leave the room dark. Every tomorrow, is an opportunity to neatly fold your blankets, and uncover your capacity to joy". -author unknown Vaheguru Ji Ki Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh My opinion on this matter i think is a fairly straight forward and basic one and to me has made sense in the past. What SatNaam has told us through the medium of the hands of His disciples that wrote upon the Timeless scribe, was that we should become like Our Master, the embodiment of Love. The highest form of Piyaar (love) is Truth, and i feel this is the only True Love, to "become" Truth (tearing away the veil of self-involvement and realising the One that lies within"). To seek the company of His Saints is to seek the company of Our Beloved. Truth Alone is the One Sant (Ik-Oankar), and Truth Alone is Akaal. The Truth that will aid and assist us on the inner journey of self-actualization is found in which ever vessel He wishes to place it within, and at which ever time He wishes to place it there. Guru comes to our assistance in the fight with the Ego, that judges and fails to recognise the Timeless within all. The Truth that can deliver us, can be found on the lips of a Prostitute or an egocentric slanderer, and in the singing of His Praises through Shabads. In either case we need to beg Vaheguru for the tools to let us listen and be open to this Truth. Virtue only given to us by Our Beloved. Vaheguru has great humor, and an even greater compassion to Love. The disciple who seeks His company at the feet of every man and woman, is beyond the "human" love and the source of it itself. The highest of all Saints and Masters is Truth, and this Truth resides within the Timeless words of Gurbani. These words are whispered through the rustle of leaves, and even through the beating of a child's heart. When one seeks SatNaam's sanctuary with the Ardas of inner and outer surrender, they truely becomes like the dog that does not leave the feet of their Beloved. Regardless of how the world may look and react to them, their thirst for Truth persists till they "become" it, and in doing so see the "self" become extinguished. The mind loves to play the game of logic, but the heart loves to become the game of Truth. The Lone Sant, is Living Truth, and Our Guru Tells us that this Truth resides in the realm of the Timeless (Sat Siri Akal - "Truth is Timeless). So whose sanctuary do we seek? If All is SatNaam, expressing SatNaam through a paintbrush on the landscape of Life, you will find Vaheguru when you no longer argue with the painter and allow yourself to become the painted. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh People too often praise the lives of others. Reflect on the virtues, that are often time seen as components seperate from the One and observed in the perishable. I would not give the title of Bhai, Sant, Bibi, Mahapursh to anyone, regardless of the virtues within them. Those are virtues of the One, ALONE. By calling someone Bhai, or giani, I do no justice, other than inflate their ego, and inflate mine in terms of "nimrita," and place a judgement upon those that I do not refer to as Bhai, or Giani's. I think True Humility, requires for us to exist in SatNaam. That experience will be unique to Every Soul, and that relationship with the Beloved, should not be labelled, with some relationship being given Greater Value than others. Our Beloved, Loves and Talks to us all the Same. That is a very Intimate relationship, that Our Beloved Alone Makes with us. So why do we place a label upon it? I am in no place to call another something other than my Veerji or Bhenji. All I can acknowledge is the One Family. The Bhagats in Gurbani, Delivered the Word of the Guru. One Guru, One SatGuru. They were also my Guru, as they were the Lone Brahmgiani. Gurbani is one, delivered by the One, and Eternally of the One, SatNaam. May we Die in Vaheguru's Word. The Word Beyond the perishable, Beyond living vessels, the Word Beyond finite existence. One Love. AKaal Hee AKaal Hee Akaal Hee Akaal............... Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh